Durango is getting busy! Even with the busy summer season, here are my top five reasons for locals to enjoy downtown.
Second Saturdays on Main are when the Durango Farmers Market moves from its normal location at TBK Bank to Main Avenue. The next one is Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon. Look for sidewalk sales at downtown businesses for deals and specials.
Another reason to enjoy downtown is events, and two come to mind. First is the Concert Hall in the Park Thursday night free concerts. Free concerts are at Buckley Park on Thursdays, starting at 5:30 p.m. and ending around 7:30 p.m., and they continue through Aug. 6.
I also want to mention the 27th annual San Juan Brewfest, held over two days at Buckley Park. If you like tasting amazing craft beer and listening to great live music, all while supporting a good local cause, this one’s for you! The Brewfest is on Friday Aug. 28 and Saturday Aug. 29 with tickets available at SanJuanBrewfest.com starting at just $40.
Durango is lucky to have a wealth of amazing eateries in downtown, and you’re invited. How about a lunch at one of our newest businesses, Side Street Sandwich and Bottle Shop? Or how about a great breakfast at Durango Diner or Oscar’s Cafe? Make a dinner reservation for a special occasion, or just because, at East By Southwest, Seasons or Primi Pasta and Wine Bar. There are 90 places to grab a bite downtown, so there truly is something for everyone.
I hear all to often that downtown only has T-shirt and souvenir shops. Not true! When was the last time you visited Urban Market? Or how about the Sparrow or Dolce for some new fashion options? Have you dropped by Blues Mountain and Soul and checked out their unique artwork for music lovers? Take the kids to Beads and Beyond or Twilight Toys for their next fun toy or game. Find something for your home at Tippy Canoe – have you seen their wall clocks section? And if you need a T-shirt or souvenir, we got you covered.
Hopefully one of these reasons to visit downtown in the summer resonates with you. If it does, then where do you park? If you visit after 5 p.m. on weekdays, park at the Transit Center parking lot, or the three parking lots on East Second Avenue, for free. These lots are also free all day on weekends. The parking meters do not need to be paid after 6 p.m. during the week and are also free on weekends. Look along the north and south ends of East Second Avenue and Narrow Gauge Avenue where you will often find open parking. A friendly reminder: Do not park at Town Plaza’s parking lot unless you are going to a business there.
I hope to see you downtown soon!
Tim Walsworth is executive director of Durango Business Improvement District. Reach him at [email protected] or 375-5068.